Travel to Japan from Singapore for free, but you just have to be in a promotional video

Free trips are hard to come by, especially with the very destinations Singaporeans love. And one of these places? Japan, of course. 

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Singapore Office (also known as JAPAN by Japan or JbyJ for short) are sponsoring some free trips to the land of sakura flowers, fresh sashimi, ramen and anime. 

According to an announcement on their website, the organization is “searching for participants who are interested in collaborating with us to make promotional videos for Japan.”

Two types of trips for two groups are up for grabs. 

The first is a family trip to Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido. The adventure-filled trip will see the selected family trying out outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and canoeing. The “family” will need to consist of two adults and two children and ready to fly in early September. 

The second trip is set for November and will be targeting couples to travel to the areas of Hiroshima and San’in where the focus will be on romance. Expect to design and make your “dream rings”, explore islands, and immerse yourself in a traditional performance art. 

If you didn’t already know, the entire trip – that’s air tickets, accommodation, transportation, and meals included in the itinerary will be covered. 

So what’s the catch?

Besides having to be Singaporean residents (with at least one Singapore citizen in the traveling group) and having to be a member of JAPAN by Japan (you can sign up real quick), the other biggest catch is that participants and their companions have to agree to have their videos taken throughout the trip. Any footage can and will be for use for their promotional videos. 

We’re guessing the biggest hurdle will be the application process itself. 

Applicants will have to submit an introductory video expressing why you should be sponsored to visit Japan and then wait to be shortlisted for an interview. More details can be found on the website.

But what’s a few steps and processes for a free trip to Japan, right?

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